WASHINGTON, Nov 10: The United States has raised by $156 million its commitment to relief and reconstruction efforts in Pakistan following last month’s devastating earthquake.

A fact sheet issued by the State Department on Wednesday said the US package includes commitments of $100 million for humanitarian relief and reconstruction, and $56 million to support the Defence Department’s relief operations.

According to the fact sheet, more than 950 American emergency management personnel are in Pakistan to assist with relief efforts and 140 US military and civilian cargo airlifts have delivered over 2,000 tons of medical supplies, food, shelter material, blankets and rescue equipment to Pakistan.

US helicopters have flown over 1,971 missions delivering almost 2,000 tons of relief supplies to the disaster area and transporting close to 13,000 people, including over 4,100 people needing medical attention.

In addition, American charitable organizations have raised $21.6 million for the relief effort and US companies have committed $47.9 million in cash and in-kind contributions, the fact sheet said.

Private Sector Engagement: — At the request of the president, five distinguished private-sector leaders have agreed to undertake a nationwide effort to encourage private donations for relief and reconstruction in response to the South Asia earthquake. — Beginning immediately, American individuals and corporations can donate directly to a fund established to provide help to the earthquake victims.

The Internet site where donations can be made to this fund is http://www.southasiaearthquakerelief.org/ — American charitable organizations have raised $21.6 million for the relief effort. — US companies have committed $47.9 million in cash and in-kind contributions.

America’s Contribution: — To date, through Usaid, the US has spent close to $42 million of its $100 million commitment for commodities and support for relief organizations providing emergency assistance. In particular, the United States is focused on addressing the urgent need for shelter as winter sets in. — The United States will participate in the government of Pakistan’s reconstruction conference planned for November. The World Bank and the Asian Development Bank are now preparing a needs assessment for presentation to the government of Pakistan and subsequently to participants in the conference.

Six US military ships have delivered 115 pieces of heavy equipment and 158 tons of humanitarian assistance supplies through the port of Karachi.